Ross said most of the young females he interviewed had remarkably similar stories. Few had committed serious crimes, and many had been the victims of either sexual or physical abuse before their arrest.

Special Handling Unit — Central Juvenile Hall, Los Angeles

“You talk to girls, and they’re in there for shoplifting, drug abuse, and probation violations,” Ross said. “It’s much different than the boys.”

“I have the advantage of being a stranger to their experience and gender, and they like to talk,” Ross said.

R.T., age 16, with her daughter — Postville, Iowa.

The Children’s Advocacy Center in El Paso, Texas provides counseling to kids who are suspected victims of sexual and physical abuse.

After building up trust and a bond, photographer and subject develop a plan together to capture a compelling portrait.

T.Q., age 16 — Central Juvenile Hall, Los Angeles

“With very heavy theatrics, I try to have them become co-conspirators with me to create an image without their face showing,” Ross said.

E.Y., age 11 — Juvenile Detention Center, Houston

The stories he’s heard have been heartwrenching. Among countless stories of physical, sexual and emotional abuse, one 14 year-old girl recounted being raped at age 3, another admitted to being suicidal.

When asked what surprised Ross most about his project, he didn’t hesitate: “How many times I’ve cried,” he said.